An Open Letter to Mr. Obama

Barr? Paul? McKinney?


Dear Mr. Obama,

Although I do believe you to be strongly preferable to McCain as our future president, I, a registered and well-informed voter, am honestly considering casting my vote for a dark horse candidate. Why? Because you have, more and more often, begun to sound and behave like just every other politician who promises anything to get elected while his behind-the-scenes behavior is much different. Case in point is the bailout legislation.

THE cure--the only REAL cure-- for the fiscal crisis facing our nation now is by taking actions that will cause a reversal in that "trickle down" effect you addresses in your recent video.

(Readers see http://my.barackobama.com/baracksplan)

Some of the points you make are solid, but nowhere do you refuse to bailout the financial "axis of evil" who got us into this mess in the first place. In fact, your words and actions so far indicate your full agreement and willingness to do so.

While casting your vote against the bailout may not affect the outcome, I need to see a presidential candidate who PROVES his willingness to face criticism when standing firm on his stated ethics.

I absolutely will NOT vote for any candidate that signs his name to any assistance for the fat cats and I will agitate my contact base to do precisely the same. In fact, I will deliberately vote against any member of congress who signs his name to this piece-of -arbage bill, whether they be democrat or republican. (And we all know how desperately the Dems need that extra number of seats.) I will be watching to see what you and the rest of Congress do and I will act accordingly. I am NOT alone in this position. We are SICK of being treated as if we are stupid and will mindlessly continue to absorb the hardships placed on us so unfairly. Yes, we are facing a horrific period in American financial history no matter the outcome. I say let's face it honestly and remedy the problems now, despite the difficulties that will entail, to make it right once and for all. At least then our grandchildren won't pay the price years from now.

So what IS the solution? Give the breaks to the working man--offer him a government sponsored remortgage at a lower rate IF he deserves it based on his credit and payment history. (If he doesn't, he deserves to lose his home anyway.) Force a lowering of all insurance premiums and the rate on lending of all types. Stop allowing Big Oil and even the corner gas stations to artificially inflate the prices of gas--we aren't fooled on that one either--and cause the prices to lower by utilizing our current stores of oil here on the homeland. By doing these things, you will give the common man you so often mention extra money in his pocket to spend which will "trickle up" to business, large and small, and government alike.

My voice is one of many with the same concerns and viewpoint, Mr. Obama. Our voices will be heard on election day. I await your decision with little hope. I sincerely hope you prove me wrong and vote against the bailout.

Ranee A. Decker
Florida